Lesson #17: Back at It “…with an important reminder”

Hi, it’s Kristen Farrell, the stranger! I started this blog back in 2013, and kept at it for almost two years. And then, I stopped, for no good reason.

On December 31, 2016, I promised myself to start blogging again. It took 212 days into the year, but I’m back baby!

And I’m back with an important lesson thanks to what in my opinion is one of the best feel-good news stories of August 1, 2017.

The Chicago Cubs gifted a 2016 World Series championship ring to Steve Bartman, a fan who is notoriously known for tipping a foul ball at the National League Championship Series in 2003 and presumably costing the long-cursed team a chance at the World title. Many blamed Bartman for following his gut-reaction to reach for a foul ball; a “mistake” that anyone in his place at the time of the play could have made; a decision that is viewed as a mistake solely because the Cubs’ left fielder was in the position to catch the ball and make the final out of the inning.

Here’s what the Chicago Cubs said:

We hope this provides closure on an unfortunate chapter of the story that has perpetuated throughout our quest to win a long-awaited World Series. While no gesture can fully lift the public burden he has endured for more than a decade, we felt it was important Steve knows he has been and continues to be fully embraced by this organization. After all he has sacrificed, we are proud to recognize Steve Bartman with this gift today.

And here’s Bartman’s response:

I humbly receive the ring not only as a symbol of one of the most historic achievements in sports, but as an important reminder for how we should treat each other in today’s society. My hope is that we all can learn from my experience to view sports as entertainment and prevent harsh scapegoating, and to challenge the media and opportunistic profiteers to conduct business ethically by respecting personal privacy rights and not exploit any individual to advance their own self-interest or economic gain.

Bartman’s statement refers to sports entertainment, but his message resonates with so many of us in different ways in today’s world. I’m glad that he was able to share his message on national platforms, and that as a result I am able to share it with you.

So, until next time, sometime soon, I leave you with the 17th lesson I’ve published on this blog:

Lesson #17: Treat others with respect, and never let someone or something stop you from doing something you enjoy.